Five for Fall

With all the new fashion out this season it's hard to figure out exactly what trends to favor, what pieces to buy, and how exactly to wear it all. After a summer of admiring the Fall collections, here are my fav 5 for the upcomming three months:

1. Lace - This trend is an easy way to dress up an outfit quickly and affordably. Every store has lace items out. I found a great lace dress at Charlotte Russe for only $29. The dress was featured in Lucky magazine with grey blue tights and boots. I suggest you try leggings or jeans however since the dress ended up fitting more like a tunic top. I had to buy it online because it sold out in stores. Try going smaller for a tighter fit or your regular size for a flowy look. Also, there are great lace top options out there. Macy's new Material Girl line features a great black option for under $20 that is only sheer in the sleeves areas - so you can wear it almost anywhere. Check out Zara as well which has lace skirts, dresses and just about everything else for around $40 to $60.

2. Embellished heels- This season there are all kinds of dressed up heels. Rachel Rachel Roy has a fuscha pair that laces up in the back for $98 and Nine West has a bunch of great options that should be hitting stores soon (check out their ads for a preview). So far, these are the only inexpensive options I have found that I could suggest, other retailers do have pretty option at low prices but greatly compromise on quality so buyer beware. Though expensive, consider investing in a well made suede or leather pair - treat them like a neutral and you can style them endlessly.

3. Cargo Pants - Yes, the once summer only camp look has been reinvented for the Fall. I love the classic forrest green ones and plan to wear them all season and save them for next summer. Try pairing them with a cute heel or dressy top to keep from looking too casual. Also, go for a more fitted style- fitted looks has so far outlived other fads when it comes to pants.

4. Chunky, oversized cable knits - The grandpa cardigan has turned into the boyfriend cardigan in fun colors and cozy materials. Look for your favorite cable knit sweater designer and go one or two sizes bigger. Save a bundle by hitting up your boyfriend, brother, best friend, etc for his sweater and pair with jeans and t's or a dress, belt it up and add heels. This is a simple look that can be accessorized to go anywhere.

5. Pointy Kitten heels - All I can say is that my love of four inches has been met with my new one and half inch fascination. I have not found the right pair yet but I am relentless in my search. These new kitten styles are a great substitute for flats - a little dressier but just as comfortable. Try them in a great bright color or embellished style and wear as a neutral to add some fun to a casual look.

Note: Designers have presented these as the new shoe - to be worn instead of pumps, stilettos, etc. I simply refuse to go all out kitten with my shoes but this up to you.